Genome-Wide Identification of TCP Transcription Factors in Castor under Salinity

TCP protein is one of the most crucial transcription factors specific to plants engaged in many kinds of physiological procedures during growth and development. The TCP family in the well-known oilseed crop castor (Ricinus communis) is still poorly understood, particularly under salt stress. Therefore, the members of RcTCP family were analyzed via bioinformatics based on the whole genome data of castor. Ricinus communis genome possesses 22 RcTCP genes, the phylogeny tree, subcellular localization, gene structure, motif and promoter were conducted. Motif 1 exists in all RcTCPs, suggesting it represents a highly conserved TCP domain. Seven gene pairs were found in RcTCPs. Moreover, there are 25, 21, 10, and 8 pairs of TCPs between Ricinus communis and Arabidopsis thaliana, Jatropha curcas, Oryza sativa, and Zea mays, respectively. It is indicated that TCPs in inter-species exhibit more gene duplication events than within species. The expression patterns of RcTCPs in cotyledons and roots varied greatly, and all of the RcTCPs-aside from RcTCP20-play relevant roles in protecting against salt stress. Our results provide a valuable foundation for promoting salt-tolerant crop cultivation and eventually output promotion of R. communis.